Ameka Coleman, the visionary force behind the haircare brand Strands of Faith, has officially been named the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Small Business Person of the Year for Mississippi. This prestigious recognition places her among the top entrepreneurs in the country, highlighting her incredible journey from a personal mission to a national success story.
As a result of this major win, Coleman is set to travel to Washington, D.C., on May 4. She will represent the state of Mississippi during National Small Business Week, an annual event dedicated to honoring business leaders who drive innovation and make a lasting impact on their local communities.
Celebrating Black Excellence in Entrepreneurship
The journey to becoming an SBA winner is rarely easy, and for Coleman, it began with a simple desire to create high-quality products for textured hair. She launched Strands of Faith to offer more than just beauty supplies; she wanted to build a brand that promotes self-care, confidence, and spiritual belief. What started as a personal quest for better hair health quickly resonated with women across the nation.
Transitioning from a small local startup to a household name required immense dedication. Coleman successfully scaled her brand into a multiple seven-figure business, proving that a clear vision and a commitment to quality can lead to massive growth. Her story is a shining example of how Black women are reshaping the landscape of modern business through resilience and creativity.
Building a Seven-Figure Brand Without Outside Funding
One of the most impressive aspects of Coleman’s success is that she built Strands of Faith as a “bootstrapped” brand. This means she grew the company from the ground up without relying on outside investors or venture capital. Instead, she used her own resources and profits to fuel the brand’s expansion, which allowed her to maintain full control over her creative vision and business values.
Growing a business to such heights requires a high level of discipline and consistency. Coleman often describes her path as a first-generation founder as one of “learning in real time.” By overcoming the unique challenges that come with self-funding, she has created a sustainable business model that serves as a blueprint for other aspiring entrepreneurs who may not have access to traditional funding.
“This recognition represents years of persistence and faith in the process,” said Coleman. “It’s an honor to represent Mississippi on a national stage and to highlight what’s possible when you take the leap of faith to follow your dreams.”
National Small Business Week and the Power of Community
National Small Business Week, which takes place from May 3 to May 9, serves as a critical reminder of the economic power held by small business owners. These individuals are responsible for creating jobs, fostering innovation, and strengthening the social fabric of their neighborhoods. Coleman’s inclusion in this celebration highlights the vital role that minority-owned businesses play in the broader American economy.
Furthermore, Coleman is not just focused on her own balance sheet; she is deeply committed to giving back to the community. She frequently uses her platform to share real-world lessons and encouragement with both new and established entrepreneurs. By mentoring others and providing honest insights into her journey, she ensures that her success helps open doors for the next generation of leaders.
